Safe Work Procedure: Chemical Handling

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals in laboratory and industrial settings. It applies to all employees who work with or around chemicals, including those involved in receiving, storing, using, and disposing of chemicals.

This procedure is applicable in laboratories, chemical storage areas, and any other locations where chemicals are used or stored. It should be used in conjunction with the facility's Chemical Hygiene Plan and relevant Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

2. Definitions

Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)
A written program developed and implemented by the employer which sets forth procedures, equipment, personal protective equipment, and work practices that are capable of protecting employees from the health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals used in that particular workplace.

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
A document that provides information on the properties of hazardous chemicals and how they affect health and safety in the workplace.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all employees are trained in chemical handling procedures.
Conduct regular inspections of chemical storage and handling areas.
Ensure that SDSs are available and accessible to all employees.

3.2 Workers

Follow all chemical handling procedures and use PPE as required.
Report any spills, leaks, or unsafe conditions to a supervisor immediately.
Participate in training and refresher courses as required.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of chemical handling procedures.
Conduct hazard assessments and recommend control measures.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Chemical exposure	Health effects such as burns, respiratory issues	Use appropriate PPE, ensure proper ventilation [1]
Chemical spills	Environmental contamination, health risks	Use spill kits, follow spill response procedures [2]
Incompatible chemical storage	Fire, explosion	Store chemicals according to compatibility guidelines [1]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential to minimize exposure to chemical hazards.

Safety glasses - Protect eyes from splashes and projectiles.
Chemical-resistant gloves - Protect hands from chemical exposure.
Lab coats - Protect skin and clothing from chemical splashes.
Respirators - Protect respiratory system from inhalation of hazardous vapors.
Face shields - Provide additional face protection when handling corrosive or reactive chemicals.

Inspect PPE before use and replace any damaged or worn items. Follow manufacturer instructions for maintenance and storage.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safe chemical handling.

Fume hoods - Use to ventilate hazardous vapors and gases.
Chemical storage cabinets - Store chemicals safely and securely.
Spill kits - Use for immediate response to chemical spills.
Eyewash stations - Provide immediate decontamination for eyes exposed to chemicals.
Safety showers - Provide full-body decontamination in case of chemical exposure.

Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to ensure proper functioning.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Employees must complete training on chemical hazards, PPE use, and emergency procedures before handling chemicals.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Discuss the specific chemicals to be used, associated hazards, and emergency procedures before starting work.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean, organized, and equipped with necessary safety equipment.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Risk Assessment

Conduct a risk assessment for the chemicals to be used.

Identify hazards associated with each chemical.
Determine appropriate control measures.
Review SDS for each chemical.

Step 2: Preparation

Prepare the work area and gather necessary equipment.

Ensure all PPE is available and in good condition.
Set up fume hoods and ventilation systems.
Verify the availability of spill kits and emergency equipment.

Step 3: Chemical Handling

Handle chemicals safely and according to procedures.

Use appropriate PPE at all times.
Follow standard operating procedures for chemical use.
Avoid direct contact with chemicals.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Labeling - Ensure all chemical containers are properly labeled with contents and hazards.
Ventilation - Use fume hoods to prevent inhalation of hazardous vapors.
Storage - Store chemicals according to compatibility and hazard class.
Spill Response - Be prepared to respond to spills with appropriate equipment and procedures.
Waste Disposal - Dispose of chemical waste according to regulations and facility procedures.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In case of an emergency, evacuate the area and notify emergency personnel.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Chemical Spill - Use spill kit and follow spill response procedures.
Fire - Use appropriate fire extinguisher and evacuate if necessary.
Exposure - Use eyewash or safety shower and seek medical attention.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to a supervisor immediately. Participate in investigations to identify root causes and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Facility Chemical Hygiene Plan
OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart I - Personal Protective Equipment

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]